Abstract
International studies suggest an interaction between unwanted pregnancies and mental health. This study examines prevalence, outcomes, and social factors of unwanted pregnancies among women with mental illness in Germany.In a cross-sectional study, 4495 women were recruited via the population register and 478 women via relevant contact points and asked about the number, intent, pregnancy outcome and social context.Women with mental illness showed an increased risk of unwanted pregnancies (OR=1.6), abortions (OR=1.6), and unwanted pregnancies carried to term (OR=1.8), and unwanted pregnancies are more often linked to stressful life circumstances.Interactions between unwanted pregnancies, mental health, and social stressors underline the need to integrate reproductive health into recovery-oriented care.